Tis the season for more than just joy and merriment as we delve into the sinister side of Christmas with a list of spine-chilling holiday horror films. This curated selection promises to add a dash of fear to your festivities.
1. Black Christmas
A classic from 1974, often hailed as the pioneer of the slasher genre, Black Christmas follows a group of sorority girls stalked by a mysterious psychopath during their Christmas break. Stream it on Shudder, AMC Plus, Tubi (free with ads), or rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and more.
2. Silent Night, Deadly Night
This ’80s slasher takes a dark turn as a disturbed young man named Billy, traumatized by a Santa-related childhood incident, embarks on a murderous rampage after being forced to dress as Santa.
Stream it on Shudder (AU), Amazon Prime Video (UK), Tubi (free with ads), or rent/buy on iTunes (US) and other services.
3. Krampus
Meet Krampus, the demonic figure from European folklore, who punishes the naughty during the holiday season. This black comedy-tinged monster flick, featuring Toni Collette and others, is a devilish delight for horror fans.
Stream it on Peacock (US), Lionsgate Plus (UK), or rent/buy on iTunes or Amazon Prime Video (AU).
4. Inside (À l’intérieur)
A French horror classic, Inside delivers an intense Christmas Eve as a deranged woman insists on claiming an expectant mother’s baby. Not for the faint of heart, it’s available to rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, and more.
5. Don’t Open Till Christmas
Set in London, this ’80s horror film offers a unique twist on the ‘killer Santa’ trope, with victims dressed as Santa Claus. Stream it on Shudder (US), AMC Plus (US), or rent/buy on Apple and other services.
6. Rare Exports
A Christmas Tale: Unearth the twisted legend of St. Nick in this Finnish film, where capturing Santa takes an unexpected turn. Stream it on Peacock (US), Icon Film Channel (UK), or rent/buy on Amazon Prime Video (UK), iTunes, and more.
7. Christmas Evil
A character study akin to Taxi Driver, Christmas Evil follows a toymaker on a killing spree after witnessing a traumatic Christmas incident as a child. Stream it on Shudder, AMC Plus, Tubi (AU).
8. Deadly Games
Dial Code Santa Claus: Preceding Home Alone, this French Christmas film features a young boy defending his home from a Santa-dressed serial murderer. Stream it on Shudder, AMC Plus.
9. Gremlins
A wickedly humorous Christmas classic, Gremlins follows Billy as he unwittingly unleashes mischievous mogwai, turning his peaceful suburb into chaos.
Buckle up for a twisted holiday movie marathon and let the Christmas fear begin! 🎄👻
